Final answer:
To show active listening, a dental assistant can pay attention, show empathy, and ask open-ended questions.
Step-by-step explanation:
A dental assistant can show active listening to a patient expressing financial concerns by utilizing several key strategies. Firstly, paying close attention to the patient's words and emotions is crucial. This can involve nodding in understanding, maintaining eye contact, and occasionally summarizing what the patient has said to ensure clarity and to show that their concerns are being heard. Questions for clarification can be asked to show engagement and a genuine interest in understanding the patient's situation. Secondly, interpreting and responding to the patient's body language is important; a comforting gesture, like a gentle touch on the arm, can express care and attentiveness. Moreover, managing the conversation respectfully, by avoiding interruptions and judgment, allows the dental assistant to truly hear and understand the patient's perspective. It's also beneficial to remain calm and to choose words carefully to avoid exacerbating the patient's concerns. Finally, being open to the discussion by expressing empathy and willingness to help can reassure the patient that their financial issues are being taken seriously.